Bryan Brown, MA, Ed.S.
Staff Counselor

I enjoy working with college students across a wide variety of issues, and I also have some special areas of interest including identity development, sexual orientation, depression, and relationships. I typically take an interpersonal-process approach in my work with clients. This approach focuses on issues in the "here and now" and explores how relationships (including the client-therapist relationship) impact a client's issues and self-concept. Some additional influences on my style as a therapist include existentialism, humanism, Eastern philosophy, mythology, and poetry.

I am originally from Long Island, NY and went to JMU as an undergraduate. I came back to work at JMU in 1999 after living in California and Northern Virginia for several years. My family and I enjoy the outdoor activities offered by the Shenandoah Valley such as hiking, camping and canoeing.

Johnna Busa-Knepp, M.A., Psy.D.
Staff Psychologist
Director of Predoctoral Psychology Internship Training

I grew up on the south shore of Long Island, New York, and relocated to Virginia in 1995 to pursue graduate studies in psychology. My interest in the field began with my desire to be an individual, couples and family therapist, with an emphasis on life transitions related to young adulthood, loss/bereavement, and changes in family constellation. After graduating from JMU's General Masters program in 1997, I began my Doctor of Psychology (Psy.D.) training at the Virginia Consortium Program in Clinical Psychology a unified doctoral program jointly offered by four schools The College of William and Mary, Eastern Virginia Medical School, Norfolk State University, and Old Dominion University. I focused my Psy.D. studies on working with young adults in outpatient settings and also completed a clinical concentration in structural family therapy at The College of William and Mary.

During my predoctoral internship and post-doctoral residency at JMU's CSDC, I also developed interests in supervision and training. I feel very fortunate to have stayed on at the CSDC since becoming licensed as a Clinical Psychologist in 2003. I thoroughly enjoy my work as the Training Director of the Predoctoral Psychology Internship in Professional Psychology and combining training with clinical work. I follow a developmental approach to supervision and try to meet each supervisee where they are at both personally and professionally and support their clinical growth and development, as well as attend to who they are as a person. As an individual therapist, I am particularly drawn towards psychodynamic theory to help clients understand how each individual responds to difficulties and challenges in life that are expressed as symptoms/general distress (for example, anxiety, depression, eating disorders, interpersonal problems; although I am a generalist by training and work with clients with a wide range of presenting concerns). I have a supportive and accepting presence as a therapist, gently confront when needed, and work collaboratively with clients to help facilitate desired growth and change. I emphasize the interpersonal process between clients and therapists in the therapy session, and believe that a good therapeutic relationship is essential in order to facilitate personal growth, change and healing in therapy.

Honestly, I can't imagine a better place to work&I get to do what I love therapy, supervision, mentoring, and training, and I work with an incredibly supportive, caring and talented staff.

Outside of work, I enjoy spending time with my husband, step-children, and two golden retriever puppies. I'm an avid sports fan and watch professional football, basketball, and motorcycle racing&live or on TV.

Shirley Cobb, MA,
Licensed Professional Counselor
Associate Director and Clinical Director

I received my MA in counseling at Eastern Kentucky University in 1975 and began work at the Madison College Counseling Center (now the JMU Counseling and Student Development Center) as counselor and educational skills development coordinator.

In 1985, my duties at the JMU CSDC included only clinical work, consultation and outreach and liaison with the lake area of residence hall staff. In the late 1980's I returned to graduate school at the University of Virginia and earned 27 hours in and between the various UVA counseling curriculums. Between 1989-91 I served as interim director of the CSDC during some major staff changes in this center and the Division of Student Affairs; I have been associate director/clinical director since 1991.

At times over the years, my interests in working with students have shifted to various issues such as stress management and holistic approaches to working with victims of sexual assault/incest and PTSD. As a counselor I consider myself to be psychodynamic/relationship oriented. Many of the precepts of solution-oriented counseling I find useful and compelling; however, I usually conceptualize client issues in terms of object relations theory. Currently, in addition to counseling populations, I am interested in developing more expeditious, integrated (with student development and other services in the university), non-traditional service delivery to students with presenting concerns in the JMU CSDC

Marian Cornelius
Administrative Assistant

I grew up in Northern Virginia and attended Shenandoah University in Winchester, VA. I worked for AT&T in Washington, D.C. for approximately 5 years and then was a stay at home mom for quite a few years.

I began working for JMU in the Counseling & Student Development Center in August 1995. As an Administrative Assistant, I provide support to the Director and the Counseling Staff while providing essential customer service to the students, faculty and the JMU community. I also assist with the day to day operation of the Center.

On a personal note, I enjoy cooking, gardening, traveling, auctions and visiting family and friends.

Kristy Doody, B.S.
Predoctoral Intern

I grew up in Rochester, New York. I received my B.S. in Psychology at Duke University in Durham, North Carolina. After graduation, I relocated to Washington, DC. For one year, I worked as a research assistant at The George Washington University Hospital assessing separation anxiety in infants and young children. After one year, I enrolled in George Washington University's Psy.D program in Clinical Psychology. As a part of my doctoral training, I have worked as an extern at the George Washington University's Center Clinic, New Endeavors, and The Parkmont School (a small, independent high school in the Washington, DC area). I was given the opportunity to provide individual counseling, comprehensive psychological assessments and consultation to individuals with a range of experiences and backgrounds. Throughout my graduate career, I have also worked part-time at Children National Medical Center conducting clinical interviews that explore post-partum depression and identity development in new mothers and I have served as a volunteer crisis counselor at the Rape Crisis Center.

I am very excited about being at JMU's Counseling and Student Development Center, as my interest in the field began with my desire to work with adolescents and college students. My clinical interests include relationship issues, PTSD/trauma recovery, depression and anxiety concerns, self and body esteem, and identity development.

Outside of work, I enjoy pretty much anything that has to do with the outdoors (including running, hiking and swimming), and spending time with my family and friends. I especially enjoy family vacations, running in marathons and spending time with my fiancé. In addition, I am looking forward to trying to learn how to cook and horseback ride!

Kristen Garza, M.A.
Counseling Extern

I am currently in my third year of the Community Counseling program. In May 2008, I will graduate with my Master's and Educational Specialist degrees. I have a B.S. in Psychology from JMU and have worked closely with JMU students for the past two years. I enjoy working with college students and am also working towards a certificate in College Student and Personnel Administration. After completing my practicum training at the Counseling and Student Development Center last year, I felt drawn to return as an Ed.S. extern. In my spare time, I enjoy anything and everything that is outdoors and involves nature such as camping, hiking, and rock climbing.

Molly Haas, M.A.
Predoctoral Intern

I grew up outside of Harrisburg, Pennsylvania, and received my Bachelor's degree in Psychology with concentrations in Cultural Anthropology and Athletic Coaching from Millersville University in 2001. I then spent two years working at a residential facility for people with severe mental illness. I began my graduate work in 2003 at Indiana University of PA (IUP) and received my Master's degree from there in 2005. While at IUP, I completed two year-long practicum placements: one at a neuropsychological practice in the community and one at IUP's Center for Counseling & Psychological Services. My therapy interests include sport psychology and clinical hypnosis.

On a personal note, I enjoy reading, hiking, traveling, and spending time with family and friends. I am a huge sports fan, and I especially enjoy baseball, football, and soccer.

Donielle Janow, Psy.D
Resident in Psychology

I grew up in Winchester, VA. I received my B.S. in Psychology from the College of William and Mary in Williamsburg, VA. After graduation I moved to the Washington, DC where I began working with children with autism. While I was in DC, I obtained my Psy.D at George Washington University in Clinical Psychology. As part of my doctoral training I worked at Maya Angelou's Public Charter School, George Washington University's Center Clinic, and Children's National Medical Center, where I provided individual and group psychotherapy, comprehensive psychological assessments, and consultation. I returned to the Valley in 2005 to complete my pre-doctoral internship at the CSDC and am currently completing the licensure requirements for the Commonwealth of Virginia during this Post-Doctoral Residency in Psychology at the CSDC.

This year I am able to purse several of my areas of interest including working with multicultural students at the Center for Multicultural Student Services, teaching in the Undergraduate Psychology Department, and providing assessments for Counseling and Psychological Services. My other areas of clinical interest include women's issues, adjustment issues, PTSD/trauma recovery, and self-identity issues.

Counseling, to me, is an interactive learning process in which we will work together to help you find a clearer understanding of yourself, your interactions, and your relationships with others. Our goal as we work together is to help you increase your level of satisfaction in your life, with yourself, and in your relationships with others.

Outside of work I love spending time with my family and visiting friends. I enjoy the theater, football, traveling, and cooking.

Sarah Jones, M.Ed., Psy.D.
Staff Psychologist

I received my undergraduate degree, B.S. in Psychology, from James Madison University in 1994. After graduation, I worked for a year (mostly at a non-profit counseling agency) before deciding to pursue my Masters degree. I received my Masters in Counselor Education from Virginia Commonwealth University in 1996. I worked as a school counselor in Louisa County for two years prior to returning to Harrisonburg in 1999. I received my doctoral degree in Clinical Psychology from James Madison University during which time I completed a year of practicum and a pre-doctoral internship at the CSDC.

I have always enjoyed a diversification of job responsibilities which allows me to work with individuals through various mediums (e.g. outreach, consultation, therapy. During my practicum training, I found myself drawn to the young adult population and the many different ways that I have to interact with students. Additionally, I love having the opportunity to explore and pursue various interests of mine such as being a co-advisor for Phi Beta Delta, an international honor society, in addition to providing consultation and supervision of comprehensive psychological assessments through the Interprofessional Services for Learning Assessment at JMU.

Personally, both my husband and I grew up in Virginia and truly love living in this part of the country. We have both traveled the United States but always seem to be particularly drawn to this area. We have two daughters that have brought incredible joy, challenges, and love to our home. When we can find the time, we enjoy taking trips to new places, outdoor activities, and spending time with friends and family.

Kara Michelle Karr, M.A., Ed.S.
Staff Counselor
Supervisor of Undergraduate Program Assistants
Coordinator of the Certificate Programs

I received my MA and EdS in Community Agency Counseling from JMU in 1993. I then went on to become licensed as a professional counselor in Virginia. While I was completing my graduate training at JMU I had the good fortune of interning here at the Counseling and Student Development Center. I enjoyed my counseling work with college students so much that I continued part-time counseling here even as I took on the role of JMU Coordinator of Disability Services. Three years later as I prepared to give birth to my first child, Mia Christina, I resigned as the Coordinator of Disability Services and stayed on here at the CSDC. I immensely enjoy my work here and plan on continuing my part-time schedule indefinitely as I now have a second child, Tessa.

Prior to my employment at JMU, I served as an Adult Protective Services Social Worker for Shenandoah County, providing case management and investigating complaints of abuse against both individuals over age 65 and adults with disabilities. This experience propelled me away from pursuing my MSW and toward a counseling career where I would be able to work with clients on a deeper level instead of focusing on more basic needs.

One of my particular areas of interest is death and dying. I completed the RMH Hospice Training and served as an in-home hospice volunteer. In addition, I have given several presentations on grief issues throughout the year. Other clinical interests include spirituality/religion as it impacts the client and the process of psychotherapy, couples counseling and group therapy.

When I conceptualize client issues, I draw from both a psychodynamic and systems model. In keeping with the CSDC's brief therapy model, I have begun to employ more of a solution-focused orientation. I continue to utilize a variety of counseling techniques, depending on what I feel the individual client will respond to, always considering that the counselor/client relationship is a key ingredient in the therapy process.

Tracy Lanier
Graduate Assistant

I am currently pursuing my Masters degree in Adult Education/Human Resource Development. This will be my second year working as a Graduate Assistant for Dr. Celeste Thomas serving as a liaison for the Peer Mentor Program, CMSS organizations, as well as Sorority and Fraternity life.

I am originally from Richmond, VA and attended JMU for undergrad. I received my Bachelors of Science in Communication Studies with minors in Religion and Spanish in May 2006. During my time here I was given the opportunity to study abroad in Salamanca, Spain. Traveling is one of my favorite past times so I treasure the time I was able to immerse myself in another culture.

After graduation I returned to Richmond where I worked at the American Cancer Society as a Recruitment Specialist. I really enjoyed this position along with the experience I received in the non profit sector. I am looking forward to continuing my education at James Madison and staying involved in campus life.

Tom Metzinger, M.Ed.
Licensed Professional Counselor
Coordinator of Group Services
Coordinator of Ed.S. Training

I have been at the CSDC part time from 1988-1991 and full time since then. I received my M.Ed. from JMU in Counselor Education from JMU in 1983 and have been licensed as Professional Counselor since 1993. I first came to the Counseling and Student Development Center to develop and assist with running the group therapy program. This continues to be a primary function of mine. In addition, I coordinate the Educational Specialists Training Program and assist in managing the technology needs of the center. My areas of interest include couples work, ACoA issues, and group therapy.

I am married and my wife and I are always in the process of working on something around our house. When I not doing my own projects, I'm usually fixing something at someone else's house or around the office. My daughter just recently married and continues to attend school, working on a degree in nursing. She is our only child. We enjoy playing golf together.

David Onestak, Ph.D.
Director

Previously the Director of the Counseling Center at Eastern Illinois University for seven years, I came to JMU in the spring of 2004. I received my undergraduate degree in psychology from Penn State in 1987, and I then immediately entered the clinical psychology program at the University of South Carolina. Beginning with my predoctoral internship at the University of Pittsburgh's Counseling & Student Development Center, my professional practice and career have been based exclusively in university counseling centers. After internship, I became a staff psychologist at Georgia Southern University's Counseling Center, where I became licensed psychologist. When a staff psychologist position became available at the University of Pittsburgh, I returned to the site of my internship and stayed there for three years, eventually becoming an Assistant Director.

Christine Samuelsen, Psy.D
Resident in Psychology

I grew up in Maryland and went to college at Saint Francis University in Loretto, Pennsylvania. While I was in college, my interest in psychology and counseling was peaked. I majored in psychology and had a double minor in sociology and religious studies. After graduating from college, I moved to Illinois for graduate school. At the Illinois School of Professional Psychology at Argosy University- Schaumburg Campus I pursued and received my Master of Arts degree and my Doctorate in Psychology (Psy.D.) in clinical psychology.

While in graduate school, I found that I truly enjoyed working with college students. I am trained as and consider myself a generalist; however, I am particularly drawn to issues such as eating disorders, anxiety, domestic violence and sexual abuse. My theoretical orientation is integrative in nature, and therefore, draws from several different theories, especially interpersonal and cognitive therapies. I also have an interest in using clinical hypnosis in the therapeutic setting.

Colleen Slipka, M.D.
Psychiatrist

I am originally from Ohio and relocated to Virginia in 2003. I completed a B.S. in Biology at Denison University in Granville, Ohio. During college, my volunteer work at the state psychiatric hospital sparked my interest in mental health. I continued studies at The Ohio State University, College of Medicine, and received my M.D. in 2003. I completed my adult psychiatric training at University of Virginia and served as chief resident for the program during my final year.

My training provided exposure to various therapeutic and pharmacologic approaches. I am interested in the interplay of psychopharmacology and psychotherapy and believe that combined treatment is superior to medications alone. This philosophy provides the foundation for my work as I only provide services to students who are actively engaged in counseling at the CSDC. I also recognize the benefits students can receive when medical providers in different specialties collaborate. Thus, I work to maintain a comprehensive treatment approach for each student.

Laura Sobik, Ph.D.
Psychology Resident

I grew up on Long Island and completed my BA in psychology at Brown University. Hoping for more sunshine, I then moved to Boulder, Colorado where I pursued my doctorate in clinical psychology with a focus on disordered eating and women's issues. I completed my pre-doctoral internship at Texas Woman's University and happily accepted a position here at the JMU CSDC in 2007.

My professional interests include eating disorders, lesbian, gay and bisexual identity issues, and multiculturalism. Both personally and professionally, my relationships are of primary importance to me, and I am dedicated to diversity awareness and education. Consequently, as a therapist I work from a relational-cultural and insight-oriented framework. The relational-cultural model of therapy focuses on a person's growth in relation to others and asserts that psychological health is characterized by a person's participation in mutual, enriching, and empathic relationships. Therefore, therapeutic work is focused on how a person connects to and disconnects from people in his or her life, always keeping in mind the person's individual context (e.g., ethnicity, sexual orientation, SES, religion, family history, etc.). I believe that, as much as possible, people strive to do the best they can given their available resources. As a clinician, I hope to help my clients find their own confidence and insight in order to look at their lives and relationships in more empowering ways.

Mercy Souder, M.A., Ed.S.
Staff Counselor

I graduated from Eastern Mennonite University with a bachelor's degree in psychology and family studies. After working at a children's psychiatric facility for some time, I began graduate school here at JMU. I earned both a Master's degree and an Ed.S. in counseling psychology in 2002. I did both my practicum and internship here at the CSDC and have been here as a part-time counselor since 2002. As a part-time counselor, I primarily see individual clients but have enjoyed running groups and supervising practicum students. I am interested in working with a variety of issues but am particularly interested in eating disorders, relationships and spiritual issues. In terms of my approach to therapy, I believe that the counseling experience can be a means of exploring confusion and pain in such a way that it produces meaning and hope. Rather than seeing myself as an "expert" simply dispensing advice, I believe that solutions are best found in the context of a relationship; the basis of this relationship being unconditional regard, warmth and empathy. I strive to be authentic and present with clients as we explore together their own resourcefulness and work together to create their own unique solutions.

Beth Sydnor, Ph.D.
Staff Psychologist

I grew up in Kingsport, a small town in northeast TN and came to Virginia in 1998 to pursue a MA in Psychology at JMU. Prior to JMU, I received my BA in Psychology at Wake Forest University (go Demon Deacons!!). After completing my doctoral degree in Counseling Psychology at Indiana University, I was thrilled to have the opportunity to return to the JMU community and the Shenandoah mountain region in 2005 as a Post-doctoral Resident at the Counseling and Student Development Center. I was offered a full-time staff psychologist position in May 2007 and am excited to be a permanent part of the CSDC family.

In regards to my therapeutic orientation, I am particularly drawn to narrative therapy. Narrative therapy seeks to be a respectful, non-blaming approach to counseling and community work, which centers people as the experts in their own lives. It views problems as separate from people and assumes people have many skills, competencies, beliefs, values, commitments and abilities that will assist them to reduce the influence of problems in their lives. I also emphasize the relationship between the client and therapist in session, and believe that a good therapeutic relationship is needed to optimize personal growth, change and healing in therapy.

Outside of work, I enjoy a variety of activities. My primary hobbies revolve around friends, family, and fitness. For example, I enjoy long bike rides/runs with friends, working out at the gym, camping, and participating in triathlons. In addition, I enjoy cooking, traveling, meeting new people, and experiencing diverse cultures.

Celeste R. Thomas, M.S., Ph.D.
Outreach and Consultation Specialist
Coordinator, Peer Mentor Program

Greetings to everyone.

I was born in Atlantic City, New Jersey and raised in McConnellsburg, Pennsylvania. I have been at the CSDC since 1991 and I love working with the students. It excites me to know that I have a career that can assist students in making lifelong changes in their lives that will benefit them long term. It is also gratifying to know that I have a career where I am touched each and everyday by the wonderful students I come into contact with whether it is in a counseling session, class, outreach program or just walking through campus.

I am very involved in the diversity efforts of both the University and Counseling Center. I love to interact with persons who are different than me because each interaction teaches me so much about others as well as motivates me to further explore myself.

In my free time I enjoy traveling, spending time with my family and friends as well as having quiet time to read and relax. I love both the mountains and the ocean and spending time out of doors in both environments.

Brenda Zane
Office Manager

I was first employed by JMU in 1984. I earned my B.S. degree from James Madison University in 1995 in Office Systems Management. On June 1, 1998, I joined the Counseling and Student Development Center staff. As the Office Manager I monitor the budget, manage the day-to-day operations of the center, and provide supervision to the support staff. I enjoy very much working with the staff and students of JMU and welcome the opportunity to assist students in any way I can.

Outside the office, I enjoy traveling and spending time with my family and friends.

Cecilia van Zyl, MSW
Substance Abuse
Specialist/Coordinator

I am originally from South Africa, I was able to completed my education in the US, with the help of numerous scholarships. I completed my undergraduate degree at Houghton College, NY, a small liberal arts school in Western NY, with a major in Psychology and minors in Family Studies & Art. There my internships included working at the Counseling Center at Houghton College and working at a Domestic Violence Center as well as being the president of the Psychology Club. I received my Masters in Clinical Social Work from the Virginia Commonwealth University (VCU), and worked as a Clinical Research Assistant, with HIV, Addictions & Medication Adherence, at the Medical College of VA (MCV) for the Department of Addiction Psychiatry. I am trained and have extensive experience in Motivational Interviewing (MI), a state of the art treatment intervention for substance abuse issues. I am a member of the Motivational Interviewing Network of Trainers (MINT) as well as a member of the National Association for Alcohol & Drug Addiction Counselors, (NAADAC) I function as the secretary on the board of the VA Association (VAADAC). I also provide clinical supervision for a Graduate Assistant, using Motivational Interviewing.

In my capacity as the Substance Abuse Coordinator, I provide many brief intervention trainings for faculty and staff at JMU. I also train students working as Peer Interventors to conduct substance abuse prevention groups, called CHOICES about Alcohol. I conduct substance abuse assessments & treatment for treatment seeking students as well as working with mandated students. Although I am the Substance Abuse Specialist only about 20% of my time is spent working with substance abusing clients, the rest of the time I work as a generalist. In addition, I provide clinical supervision for a Graduate Assistant, using Motivational Interviewing.

I use a variety of therapeutic interventions with clients; I mostly resonate with Rogerian therapy. First and foremost, I believe the process of change occurs in an environment of empathy, unconditional positive regard, and acceptance. As a Clinical Social Worker I also resonate with the Strengths Perspective. Rather than pathologizing clients I help them discover their internal resources and strengths and help them focus on positive aspects of their lives. This positive feedback enhances client's motivation to change and to foster hope for the future. As a systems approach I apply Bowenian theory, focusing on differentiation, helping clients to observe triangles and detriangulate. I also believe strongly in helping clients see their own involvement in their problems. I find using genograms & ecograms to assist clients to explore their family of origin & environment helpful.

In addition to my duties at The Counseling & Student Development Center, I conduct Motivational Interviewing trainings, and consultations in VA.